Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan Denies Internal Crisis Amid Opposition Protests

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has firmly stated that there is no internal political crisis in the country, despite ongoing opposition protests. This assertion was made during a discussion of the state budget with parliamentary commissions.

Pashinyan's comments come amid significant civil unrest led by the Tavush for the Homeland movement, which began on April 19 following an agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan to start border delimitation at Tavush Province. Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan, the movement's leader, has called for Pashinyan's resignation.

The stability of Armenia's government has significant implications for the region's geopolitical dynamics. If Pashinyan's government collapses, it could lead to a power vacuum and potentially destabilize the entire region.

Despite the protests, Pashinyan maintains that government agencies are functioning within their designated roles. 'There is no internal political crisis in Armenia,' he emphasized, suggesting that the situation is under control.

The border delimitation agreement has been a flashpoint, leading to widespread dissent. On May 27, Armenian police detained 137 people, including opposition lawmakers, in the capital Yerevan as demonstrators resumed their anti-government protests. The protests, led by Archbishop Galstanyan, have seen thousands gather in central Yerevan.

Galstanyan, the head of the Tavush Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, has announced his intention to challenge Pashinyan for the premiership. However, his dual citizenship of Armenia and Canada poses a constitutional barrier. The opposition has pledged to support his bid, despite this obstacle.

The border demarcation deal, completed on May 15, has been recognized by the United States and the European Union, emphasizing the 1991 Alma Ata Declaration, which acknowledges territorial integrity within existing administrative borders. Yet, the agreement has sparked significant unrest in Armenia.

Pashinyan has dismissed the opposition's criticisms and calls for resignation, asserting that the demarcation process has not ceded any sovereign Armenian territory to Azerbaijan. He has pledged compensation for those losing property as a result of the demarcation, although some residents have rejected this offer.

The situation remains tense, with the opposition continuing to mobilize support and engage in civil disobedience. The coming weeks will likely determine whether Pashinyan can maintain his position amidst increasing pressure from both domestic opposition and the broader geopolitical environment.

Key Takeaways

• Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan denies internal political crisis amidst opposition protests.
• Tavush for the Homeland movement demands Pashinyan's resignation over border delimitation deal.
• Government stability is crucial for regional geopolitical dynamics.
• 137 people, including opposition lawmakers, detained in Yerevan protests.
• Opposition leader Archbishop Galstanyan to challenge Pashinyan for premiership despite constitutional barrier.